Best new flooring for this rental - Chicago area

[Ryan Rubel]

My rental SFH is going to need the carpet replaced after the current tenants leave April 1st. This is a 1250 sqft. SFH in the Schaumburg area near Chicago with a slab. What's the best looking, durable, affordable, and available flooring?

I've seen in other posts that people use laminate from Home Depot - is this recommended?  

Other questions:

1) What do I need to be aware of when putting laminate on slab?

2) There will be about 1000sqft required.. is it reasonable to think a contractor can do this in a week, including carpet removal/disposal?

3) How much should I expect to pay for labor?

Thanks,

Ryan

Keywords: Chicago, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Palatine, Hanover Park, Elgin, Streamwood Bartlett Cook County